Jettison/ˈdʒetɪsn/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Urgency or Emergency Often implies a dire situation where dropping cargo or equipment is necessary. In a storm, the crew jettisoned the containers to stabilize the ship. Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal Can be used metaphorically to suggest eliminating something non-physical. Under pressure, he jettisoned his doubts and made the leap. Pro Tip 3/3Weight Reduction Jettison typically aims to make a vehicle lighter for safety or performance. To climb faster, the balloonist jettisoned sandbags.